Oticon's Hearing Loss Theories: Understanding Spatial Hearing & Beyond

Oticon audiology researchers develop theories about hearing impairment to help meet the needs of people with decreased hearing ability. Research findings direct the work of medical device manufacturers and assist the psychiatric community in understanding the emotional pathology of hearing loss.

Spatial Hearing

• Spatial hearing involves determining the location from which sound is emanating. Based on clinical research, Oticon spatial hearing theory hypothesizes that the hearing-impaired lose the ability to hear high frequency sounds above, and in front of, them first. The ability to hear low frequency sounds decreases on the left side first.

Frequency Bandwidths

• The effects of hearing aids with frequency bandwidth detections up to 10,000 hertz (Hz) were studied by Oticon researchers. It was discovered that while the sound quality of instruments was better at frequencies up to 16,500 Hz, speech could not be heard properly at frequencies above 10,800 Hz. Oticon theory credits modern hearing aids as being more advantageous for daily communication.

Connectivity Issues

• Oticon theorizes that hearing loss isolates the disabled from social interaction. The eventual impact of continued hearing loss results in loneliness, frustration, depression, reduced alertness and impaired memory.